Short Description

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole brings all the classic flavors of your favorite pizzeria into one delicious, family-friendly dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, pasta, melted cheese, and crispy pepperoni, this hearty casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Night Upgrade: A creative twist on traditional pizza, served in a satisfying baked pasta form.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, meaty layers topped with pepperoni.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for beginners.
Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings or sauces to make it your own.
Great for Leftovers: Reheats well and makes excellent next-day lunches.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
20–25 pepperoni slices
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Make the Sauce Mixture:
Stir the pizza sauce and Italian seasoning into the cooked beef. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Layer the Casserole:
In a greased baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta. Top with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers.
Add Pepperoni:
Arrange pepperoni slices over the top layer of cheese. Sprinkle with a bit of extra Parmesan if desired.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Serve:
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Variations

Supreme Style: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and black olives.
Spicy Option: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or provolone between layers for extra cheesiness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the pizza sauce is gluten-free.
Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables for a veggie version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a covered baking dish or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne and rotini work best, but fusilli or ziti are also good choices.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.

What’s the best type of pepperoni for this?

Use standard sliced pepperoni or mini pepperoni for fun presentation. Turkey pepperoni works too.

Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?

No, bake it uncovered so the top becomes golden and slightly crispy.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms, onions, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I make it creamier?

Add a few spoonfuls of ricotta or a drizzle of cream into the sauce mixture.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in a tightly sealed container and label with date before freezing.

Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?

Yes, although freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that combines the ease of a casserole with the bold, cheesy flavor of your favorite pizza. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing for a potluck, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe checks every box for a delicious and effortless meal.

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner for pizza lovers! Loaded with pasta, seasoned ground beef, rich pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni, this cheesy, baked casserole brings all your favorite pizza flavors into one hearty, family-friendly dish.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
20-25 pepperoni slices
1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Beef Mixture: In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Drain fat, then stir in pizza sauce and Italian seasoning.
Layer Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half the pasta, followed by half the beef mixture and cheeses. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Add Toppings: Top with pepperoni slices and sprinkle with Parmesan.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let cool slightly and serve hot.

Notes

Add chopped veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Use mini pepperoni for better distribution.
Make ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American